North American woodplant plant becoming increasingly rare due to its popularity for many internal and external conditions. Contains the alkaloid hydrastine which acts on the mucous membranes to alleviate catarrhal conditions such as sore gums, gastritis, nasal congestion, etc. Difficult to raise from seeds; best sown outdoors in autumn. Germination is typically low, and often takes 2 winters to complete. Propagation by rootlets is more reliable.Live plants cannot be shipped to the U.S. per CITES rules.